RM500 increase for Majlis Adat Istiadat members, RM400 hike for community leaders and headmen

Sikie delivering his ministerial winding up speech at Sarawak Legislative Assembly on May 18, 2026.

By Lian Cheng

KUCHING, May 18: The allowance for members of the Majlis Adat Istiadat Sarawak (Council for Native Customs and Traditions) has been increased from RM500 to RM1,000, while community leaders will receive a RM400 increase in their monthly allowance.

Minister in the Premier’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai (Native Laws and Customs) held that members of the Majlis contribute significantly to the preservation, development and dissemination of Adat (customs and traditions) of the natives in Sarawak.

“As such, the Sarawak Government has taken the initiative in reviewing the allowances and other benefits of members of the Majlis. This ensures the members also enjoy fair compensation in performing their official duties,” said Sikie.

“Since 2013, these allowances have remained unchanged. Thus, with the approval of Majlis Mesyuarat Kerajaan Negeri (the Sarawak Cabinet) on 16 April 2026, the monthly allowance of members of the Majlis has been revised to RM1,000.00, representing an increment of RM500.00 from the current rate of RM500.00.

“Members of the Majlis are also entitled to a meeting allowance at RM100.00 per meeting to a maximum of RM400.00 annually,” said Sikie when delivering his ministerial winding up speech at Sarawak Legislative Assembly here today.

“In addition, members of the Majlis are also eligible for medical benefits equivalent to the entitlement under existing medical benefits scheme applicable to community leaders that are currently in force.

“On top of that, members of the Majlis are also provided with formal attire which consists of a pair of lounge suit, with the entitlement of RM1,000.00 and RM200.00 for a corporate shirt, within the three-year period of their appointment,” said Sikie.

He pointed out that the Sarawak Government has always recognised the role of KMKK (community leaders and headmen) as a key pillar of grassroots administration in ensuring that the delivery of services, implementation of policies, and its initiatives be carried out smoothly, effectively, and comprehensively for the people.

In facing current developments and the increasingly dynamic needs of society, the Government recognises that the responsibilities borne by the KMKK today are becoming increasingly complex and challenging.

In this regard, he said, the Government remains committed to undertaking various measures to strengthen the KMKK institution so that it remains relevant, competitive, and capable of meeting the needs of today’s society.

“Among these measures is the enhancement of welfare provisions, whereby the Government has agreed to increase the monthly salary and allowance of KMKK members by RM400.00 per month, effective from January 2026,” said Sikie. —DayakDaily